The European Union (EU), through its European Space Agency (ESA), in partnership with Nigeria’s National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), will inaugurate a satellite-based agricultural initiative titled “Innovative Agriculture” by January 2026.
Mr. Hugh Briggs, the EU Programme Manager for Agriculture in Nigeria and West Africa, disclosed this in an interview on Monday in Abuja.
Briggs explained that the initiative—also referred to as Copernicus—is part of a broader EU programme aimed at enhancing agricultural innovation across Africa using satellite data and advanced geospatial mapping tools.
“We have a new project called Innovative Agriculture, also known as Copernicus. It involves the EU contracting ESA to work directly with NASRDA, given their technical expertise,” he said.
He added that the project spans several African countries and is designed to transform agricultural practices using innovation and modern technology.
“ESA is currently in close contact with NASRDA, and we’re at the final stage of preparations. The launch in Nigeria is expected by the end of this year, but will not go beyond January 2026.”
According to Briggs, the EU will provide the funding while ESA delivers technical support and training to NASRDA staff to ensure successful nationwide implementation.
He noted that the technology transfer will focus on space-based tools and precision agriculture techniques. NASRDA will, in turn, recruit and train young people in local communities to support on-the-ground implementation.
“NASRDA will identify and train young community members in innovative farming methods. They’ll be equipped with tools and taught applications such as soil testing, geolocation (longitude and latitude), and polygon mapping for their farms.
“Most importantly, they’ll learn how to use technology to determine what to plant, when to plant, and how best to match crops to soil types for maximum yield.”
Briggs said the trained extension agents will relay this knowledge to farmers, especially through cooperative structures, to maximize reach and impact.
As part of the implementation plan, NASRDA has identified seven ecological zones across Nigeria where demonstration farms will be established. These farms will serve as testing grounds for satellite data application and farmer training.
“We’re also setting up a state-of-the-art tech hub at NASRDA. It will serve as a training centre equipped with modern agricultural technology,” he added.
Briggs emphasized the EU’s commitment to helping Nigeria harness digital and space-based technologies to unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector.
